Connector trail project receives large donations

Thursday

Jun 8, 2017 at 11:48 AMJun 8, 2017 at 11:56 AM

Chief Staff

The Dallas County Conservation Foundation recently received two large donations for the Raccoon River Valley Trail to High Trestle Trail connector project. They received a $90,000 grant from the Wellmark Foundation and $10,000 from Bob and Jane Sturgeon.

The grant from the Wellmark Foundation will need to be matched dollar-for-dollar. A letter from the Wellmark Foundation to the DCCF said that they were “delighted” in the work they have been doing with the project.

“We commend you for your commitment to the health of your community and the individuals that will benefit from your project,” the letter said.

The grant was specifically to help with Phase I of the project, which would include the segment from 18th Street in Perry, going east about 1.5 miles to 130th Street. The DCCF’s hope is that this phase could happen in 2018 and the estimated cost is $556,000.

The $10,000 donation from the Sturgeon’s was donated through the Dallas County Foundation.

Dallas County Conservation Director, Mike Wallace said that he will continue to apply for additional funds and encourages people to make a “sizable” donation now that trail season is here. Those wishing to donate can do so by visiting www.letsconnectdallascounty.com, or by calling the Dallas County Conservation Board at (515)465-3577.